Policy Matters names Jasmine Ayres policy liaison
Posted October 22, 2019 in Press Releases
Jasmine Ayres has joined Policy Matters Ohio as the organization’s new policy liaison. In her role, Ayres will work to connect the group’s research and analysis with state policymakers, allies and the general public. She will especially focus her efforts on reforming Ohio’s upside-down tax code which favors the wealthy and powerful while failing to generate enough revenue to properly fund public schools, infrastructure and important community needs.
“As a product of Columbus city schools, I’ve experienced first-hand the consequences of corporate tax cuts that siphon resources from our schools and communities,” Ayres said. “I’ve known teachers who made personal sacrifices to pay for books and supplies for their students. That’s unacceptable. Every school and every community should have the resources they need, which is I why I’m eager to advance a revenue strategy that prioritizes everyday Ohioans and values people over profit.”
Ayres was born and raised on Columbus’s north side. She graduated from Northland high school where she played varsity football. She received a bachelor’s degree in history from Wake Forest University in North Carolina and a master’s degree from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin.
Since returning to Columbus she has coached football at Northland High School, helped register over 20,000 people to vote, and run for Columbus City Council. She most recently worked as a youth outreach specialist for the Huckleberry House. She also served as the community development officer for the Community of Caring Development Foundation, the development arm of New Salem Baptist church, where she has attended since she was 4 years old.
“Jasmine brings a breadth of experience, fantastic energy and a keen intellect to Policy Matters,” said Executive Director Amy Hanauer. “She is one of Ohio’s dynamic young leaders. We are looking forward to seeing what she will help us accomplish.”
Download prjasmine10.21.19.pdf